Phihong Develops 24-Port Gigabit Power-over-Ethernet Midspan
Phihong USA has developed a 24-port gigabit Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) midspan. Designated the POE37OU Series, the midspan is ideal for 10-, 100-, and 1000-Base-T networks. The low-cost device features 24 ports for VoIP phones, access points, security systems and lighting systems with single UPS.
"The cost of this product is kept down because we design, manufacture and sell our own products," said Keith Hopwood, vice president of marketing for Phihong USA. "We're leveraging our high volume, low cost production of networking power supplies to reduce the entry cost for implementing PoE."
The low cost, 24-port POE370U features IEEE 802.3af detection, disconnect and overload protection. Each product can fully support 15.4W per port, eliminating the need for power management and prioritization. The midspan has Cisco legacy detection without the need of external dongles, as well as an optional NIC interface. Each product is provided with a graphics user interface (GUI) for diagnostics or remote control. The POE370U measures 17.25 inches by 8.98 inches by 1.75 inches, and weighs 9.0 pounds.
PoE is a cost-efficient solution for powering VoIP, particularly in terms of initial investment. As a single point of backup, PoE eliminates the need for desktop backup power. No complex redesign of offices or electrical systems is necessary for installation, so there are no costly electrician bills or time-consuming renovations. As all Phihong midspans can provide full power on every port there is no configuration time required to set up port priorities. These products just plug and go, also reducing installation and management costs.
PoE allows both power and data to be carried over a single Ethernet cable, enabling a device to operate entirely from the power it receives through the data cable. This eliminates the need for additional wall outlets, so phones can be moved around offices without costly and time-consuming rewiring.
Pricing of the POE370U 24-port midspan is $499 each. A detailed specification is available from the company's website.
